New Level of Sound (Level-up)
The original ZEN CAN Signature HFM is a fully analog headphone amplifier that boasted the ability to drive complex load headphones, a balanced circuit, low distortion levels, and a universal sound adapter. ZEN CAN Signature HFM takes this to another level. It further enhances sound quality with a completely new circuit design, while maintaining the universal features of the "standard" version, and adding a custom headphone profile setting that is precisely tailored to the headphone's frequency response curve, in order to maximize the performance of the popular headphone model.
ActivEQ Setting
The new feature, called ActivEQ, combines active and passive components to create a specific equalizer curve according to the specific pair of headphones, all performed in the analog domain without any hint of additional noise or distortion. ActivEQ comes with a pre-set configuration for 'HIFIMAN' headphones – the popular series of planar magnetic headphones. HIFIMAN headphones provide excellent transparency and deliver a wide and open soundstage. The ZEN CAN HFM enhances the texture of deep bass and emphasizes the upper midrange.
Sound with ActiveEQ Profile
When the "HFM" button is pressed, ZEN CAN Signature HFM calibrates its signal to complement the headphone's response characteristics across the entire frequency range, adapting its characteristics to exactly match the sound of HIFIMAN headphones. This function can be toggled on or off.
Four Gain Settings
The amplifier has four gain settings ranging from 0 dB to +6 dB, +12 dB, and +18 dB. This allows the amplifier to precisely match the connected headphones. The 0 dB mode is useful for providing a low noise level with sensitive in-ear monitors, while higher gains are used for driving complex load headphones, providing excellent dynamic range.
XSpace Spatial Mode
This analog processing mode compensates for the "in-head" sound effect that may occur when using headphones, and simulates the sound produced by two speakers. It expands the soundstage of the headphones to provide the most accurate match to an acoustic stereo system.
Balanced Advantage
The ZEN CAN Signature HFM features a fully balanced construction with two mono blocks combined into one chassis. This topology is commonly used in high-end headphone amplifiers. The amplifier utilizes a discrete Class A circuit design developed for the flagship iFi headphone amplifier, the Pro iCAN. Key components have been upgraded to improve performance in line with the enhancements made to the ZEN CAN Signature HFM, including the use of Panasonic OS-CON and Elna Silmic II capacitors.
Impressive Power
The device provides impressive amplification capabilities, delivering 1000 mW (4 V) into 16 ohms from the single-ended output, and 15.2 V+ available for 600 ohms or above from the balanced 4.4mm output, ensuring it unleashes the potential of demanding planar magnetic headphones. With extremely low distortion, high detail resolution, rich dynamics, and the ability to easily drive all types of headphones, the ZEN CAN Signature HFM is truly a force to be reckoned with.
Versatile Connectivity Options
The ZEN CAN Signature HFM offers stereo RCA and 3.5mm inputs, as well as a balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn input. The balanced 4.4mm output is provided to connect to power amplifiers equipped with a balanced input. It provides two headphone outputs – a 6.3mm output for headphones with a standard connector (compatible with all headphones) and a balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn output for headphones with balanced connection. An increasing number of high-quality headphones and IEM monitors either come with this configuration or provide the option to detach the cable and switch to the 4.4mm Pentaconn connector.
Dynamic Duo
ZEN DAC pairs well with ZEN CAN Signature HFM. When used in tandem, the two ZEN components create a fantastic desktop headphone system for both digital and analog sources, further expanding the reputation of the iFi ZEN series for exceptional performance and versatility at affordable prices.
Can Signature HFM Features:
- Configuration: Dual mono
- Discrete MOSFET amplification
- Ultra-low noise level - 0.0001%
- Panasonic OS-CON and 5.410 pF capacitors
- Audiophile-grade muRata and Elna capacitors
- Ultra-low noise Texas Instruments power supply
- Tokyo Cosmos Electric Co. (TOCOS) volume control
Can Signature Output Power:
- 16 ohms: 3V/600 mW (4.4mm), 4V/1000 mW (6.3mm)
- 300 ohms: 5.1V/756 mW (4.4mm), 7.6V/196 mW (6.3mm)
- 600 ohms: 15.2V/385 mW (4.4mm), 7.6V/98 mW(6.3mm)
Package Contents:
- Amplifier
- Power adapter
